GARETH DAVIES, 47, was born at Tumble, near Llanelli, and educated at Gwendraeth Grammar School where he followed in the footsteps of Carwyn James and Barry John.

After reading for a chemistry degree at Uwist in Cardiff, he went up to Oxford where he took a second degree and won his blue. He then did a year's teacher training.

His business acumen was honed during his time with a building society and then at the CBI Wales. This was followed by time spent at the BBC as Head of Sport, chief executive at Cardiff Athletic Club and the Sports Council for Wales.

Currently commissioning editor for Sports and Events at S4C, he led the team that won the TV rights to the forthcoming Rugby World Cup.

With a touch of understatement he said, "It's an exciting time and this helps to retain my interest in sport."